Electrode self-cleaning mechanism for electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner devices

ABSTRACT

An air conditioner device includes a first electrode array and a second electrode array. A mechanism, that cleans the electrode(s) in a first electrode array, includes a length of flexible insulating material that projects from a base of the second electrode array towards the first electrode array. As a user moves the second electrode array up or down within the conditioner housing, the electrode(s) in the first array are frictionally cleaned.

PRIORITY CLAIM

[0001] This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/924,624, entitled “ElectrodeSelf-Cleaning Mechanism for Electro-Kinetic Air Transporter ConditionerDevices” (Attorney Docket No. SHPR-01041US4), filed Aug. 8, 2001, whichis a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/564,960 (nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,350,417), entitled “Electrode Self-Cleaning Mechanismfor Electro-Kinetic Air Transporter Conditioner Devices” (AttorneyDocket No. SHPR-01041US1), filed May 5, 2000, which is acontinuation-in-part from U.S. application Ser. No. 09/186,471 (now U.S.Pat. No. 6,176,977), entitled“Electro-Kinetic AirTransporter-Conditioner” (Attorney Docket No. SHPR-01041US0), filed Nov.5, 1998, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to devices that produce ozoneand an electro-kinetic flow of air from which particulate matter hasbeen substantially removed, and more particularly to cleaning theelectrodes present in such devices.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The use of an electric motor to rotate a fan blade to create anairflow has long been known in the art. Unfortunately, such fans producesubstantial noise, and can present a hazard to children who may betempted to poke a finger or a pencil into the moving fan blade. Althoughsuch fans can produce substantial air flow, e.g., 1,000 ft³/minute ormore, substantial electrical power is required to operate the motor, andessentially no conditioning of the flowing air occurs.

[0004] It is known to provide such fans with a HEPA-compliant filterelement to remove particulate matter larger than perhaps 0.3 μm.Unfortunately, the resistance to airflow presented by the filter elementmay require doubling the electric motor size to maintain a desired levelof airflow. Further, HEPA-compliant filter elements are expensive, andcan represent a substantial portion of the sale price of aHEPA-compliant filter-fan unit. While such filter-fan units cancondition the air by removing large particles, particulate matter smallenough to pass through the filter element is not removed, includingbacteria, for example.

[0005] It is also known in the art to produce an air flow usingelectro-kinetic techniques, by which electrical power is directlyconverted into a flow of air without mechanically moving components. Onesuch system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,789,801 to Lee (1988),depicted herein in simplified form as FIGS. 1A and 1B. Lee's system 10includes an array of small area (“minisectional”) electrodes 20 that isspaced-apart symmetrically from an array of larger area(“maxisectional”) electrodes 30. The positive terminal of a pulsegenerator 40 that outputs a train of high voltage pulses (e.g., 0 toperhaps +5 KV) is coupled to the minisectional array, and the negativepulse generator terminal is coupled to the maxisectional array.

[0006] The high voltage pulses ionize the air between the arrays, and anairflow 50 from the minisectional array toward the maxisectional arrayresults, without requiring any moving parts. Particulate matter 60 inthe air is entrained within the airflow 50 and also moves towards themaxisectional electrodes 30. Much of the particulate matter iselectrostatically attracted to the surface of the maxisectionalelectrode array, where it remains, thus conditioning the flow of airexiting system 10. Further, the high voltage field present between theelectrode arrays can release ozone into the ambient environment, whichappears to destroy or at least alter whatever is entrained in theairflow, including for example, bacteria.

[0007] In the embodiment of FIG. 1A, minisectional electrodes 20 arecircular in cross-section, having a diameter of about 0.003″ (0.08 mm),whereas the maxisectional electrodes 30 are substantially larger in areaand define a “teardrop” shape in cross-section. The ratio ofcross-sectional radii of curvature between the maxisectional andminisectional electrodes is not explicitly stated, but from Lee'sfigures appears to exceed 10:1. As shown in FIG. 1A herein, the bulbousfront surfaces of the maxisectional electrodes face the minisectionalelectrodes, and the somewhat sharp trailing edges face the exitdirection of the airflow. The “sharpened” trailing edges on themaxisectional electrodes apparently promote good electrostaticattachment of particular matter entrained in the airflow. Lee does notdisclose how the teardrop shaped maxisectional electrodes arefabricated, but presumably they are produced using a relativelyexpensive mold-casting or an extrusion process.

[0008] In another embodiment shown herein as FIG. 1B, Lee'smaxisectional sectional electrodes 30 are symmetrical and elongated incross-section. The elongated trailing edges on the maxisectionalelectrodes provide increased area upon which particulate matterentrained in the airflow can attach. Lee states that precipitationefficiency and desired reduction of anion release into the environmentcan result from including a passive third array of electrodes 70.Understandably, increasing efficiency by adding a third array ofelectrodes will contribute to the cost of manufacturing and maintainingthe resultant system.

[0009] While the electrostatic techniques disclosed by Lee areadvantageous over conventional electric fan-filter units, Lee'smaxisectional electrodes are relatively expensive to fabricate. Further,increased filter efficiency beyond what Lee's embodiments can producewould be advantageous, especially without including a third array ofelectrodes.

[0010] The invention in appilcants' parent application provided a firstand second electrode array configuration electro-kinetic airtransporter-conditioner having improved efficiency over Lee-typesystems, without requiring expensive production techniques to fabricatethe electrodes. The condition also permitted user-selection of safeamounts of ozone to be generated.

[0011] The second array electrodes were intended to collect particulatematter, and to be user-removable from the transporter-conditioner forregular cleaning to remove such matter from the electrode surfaces. Theuser must take care, however, to ensure that if the second arrayelectrodes were cleaned with water, that the electrodes are thoroughlydried before reinsertion into the transporter-conditioner unit. If theunit were turned on while moisture from newly cleaned electrodes wasallowed to pool within the unit, and moisture wicking could result inhigh voltage arcing from the first to the second electrode arrays, withpossible damage to the unit.

[0012] The wire or wire-like electrodes in the first electrode array areless robust than the second array electrodes. (The terms “wire” and“wire-like” shall be used interchangeably herein to mean an electrodeeither made from a wire or, if thicker or stiffer than a wire, havingthe appearance of a wire.) In embodiments in which the first arrayelectrodes were user-removable from the transporter-conditioner unit,care was required during cleaning to prevent excessive force from simplysnapping the wire electrodes. But eventually the first array electrodescan accumulate a deposited layer or coating of fine ash-like material.If this deposit is allowed to accumulate eventually efficiency of theconditioner-transporter will be degraded. Further, for reasons notentirely understood, such deposits can produce an audible oscillationthat can be annoying to persons near the conditioner-transporter.

[0013] Thus there is a need for a mechanism by a conditioner-transporterunit can be protected against moisture pooling in the unit as a resultof user cleaning. Further there is a need for a mechanism by which thewire electrodes in the first electrode array of aconditioner-transporter can be periodically cleaned. Preferably suchcleaning mechanism should be straightforward to implement, should notrequire removal of the first array electrodes from theconditioner-transporter, and should be operable by a user on a periodicbasis.

[0014] The present invention provides such a method and apparatus.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0015] Applicants' parent application provides an electro-kinetic systemfor transporting and conditioning air without moving parts. The air isconditioned in the sense that it is ionized and contains safe amounts ofozone. The electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner disclosed thereinincludes a louvered or grilled body that houses an ionizer unit. Theionizer unit includes a high voltage DC inverter that boosts common 110VAC to high voltage, and a generator that receives the high voltage DCand outputs high voltage pulses of perhaps 10 KV peak-to-peak, althoughan essentially 100% duty cycle (e.g., high voltage DC) output could beused instead of pulses. The unit also includes an electrode assemblyunit comprising first and second spaced-apart arrays of conductingelectrodes, the first array and second array being coupled,respectively, preferably to the positive and negative output ports ofthe high voltage generator.

[0016] The electrode assembly preferably is formed using first andsecond arrays of readily manufacturable electrode configurations. In theembodiments relevant to this present application, the first arrayincluded wire (or wire-like) electrodes. The second array comprised“U”-shaped or “L”-shaped electrodes having one or two trailing surfacesand intentionally large outer surface areas upon which to collectparticulate matter in the air. In the preferred embodiments, the ratiobetween effective radii of curvature of the second array electrodes tothe first array electrodes was at least about 20:1.

[0017] The high voltage pulses create an electric field between thefirst and second electrode arrays. This field produces anelectro-kinetic airflow going from the first array toward the secondarray, the airflow being rich in preferably a net surplus of negativeions and in ozone. Ambient air including dust particles and otherundesired components (germs, perhaps) enter the housing through thegrill or louver openings, and ionized clean air (with ozone) exitsthrough openings on the downstream side of the housing.

[0018] The dust and other particulate matter attaches electrostaticallyto the second array (or collector) electrodes, and the output air issubstantially clean of such particulate matter. Further, ozone generatedby the transporter-conditioner unit can kill certain types of germs andthe like, and also eliminates odors in the output air. Preferably thetransporter operates in periodic bursts, and a control permits the userto temporarily increase the high voltage pulse generator output, e.g.,to more rapidly eliminate odors in the environment.

[0019] Applicants' parent application provided second array electrodeunits that were very robust and user-removable from thetransporter-conditioner unit for cleaning. These second array electrodeunits could simply be slid up and out of the transporter-conditionerunit, and wiped clean with a moist cloth, and returned to the unit.However on occasion, if electrode units are returned to thetransporter-conditioner unit while still wet (from cleaning), moisturepooling can reduce resistance between the first and second electrodearrays to where high voltage arcing results.

[0020] Another problem is that over time the wire electrodes in thefirst electrode array become dirty and can accumulate a deposited layeror coating of fine ash-like material. This accumulated material on thefirst array electrodes can eventually reduce ionization efficiency.Further, this accumulated coating can also result in thetransporter-conditioner unit producing 500 Hz to 5 KHz audibleoscillations that can annoy people in the same room as the unit.

[0021] In a first embodiment, the present invention extends one or morethin flexible sheets of Mylar or Kapton type material from the lowerportion of the removable second array electrode unit. This sheet orsheets faces the first array electrodes and is nominally in a planeperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first and second arrayelectrodes. Such sheet material has high voltage breakdown, highdielectric constant, can withstand high temperature, and is flexible. Aslit is cut in the distal edge of this sheet for each first arrayelectrode such that each wire first array electrode fits into a slit inthis sheet. Whenever the user removes the second electrode array fromthe transporter-conditioner unit, the sheet of material is also removed.However in the removal process, the sheet of material is also pulledupward, and friction between the inner slit edge surrounding each wiretends to scrape off any coating on the first array electrode. When thesecond array electrode unit is reinserted into thetransporter-conditioner unit, the slits in the sheet automaticallysurround the associated first electrode array electrode. Thus, there isan up and down scraping action on the first electrode array electrodeswhenever the second array electrode unit is removed from, or simplymoved up and down within, the transporter-conditioner unit.

[0022] Optionally, upwardly projecting pillars can be disposed on theinner bottom surface of the transporter-conditioner unit to deflect thedistal edge of the sheet material upward, away from the first arrayelectrodes when the second array electrode unit is fully inserted. Thisfeature reduces the likelihood of the sheet itself lowering theresistance between the two electrode arrays.

[0023] In a presently preferred embodiment, the lower ends of the secondarray electrodes are mounted to a retainer that includes pivotable armsto which a strip of Mylar or Kapton type material is attached. Thedistal edge of each strip includes a slit, and the each strip (and theslit therein) is disposed to self-align with an associated wireelectrode. A pedestal extends downward from the base of the retainer,and when fully inserted in the transporter-conditioner unit, thepedestal extends into a pedestal opening in a sub-floor of the unit. Thefirst electrode array-facing walls of the pedestal opening urge the armsand the strip on each arm to pivot upwardly, from a horizontal to avertical disposition. This configuration can improve resistance betweenthe electrode arrays.

[0024] Yet another embodiment provides a cleaning mechanism for thewires in the first electrode array in which one or more bead-likemembers surrounds each wire, the wire electrode passing through achannel in the bead. When the transporter-conditioner unit is inverted,top-for-bottom and then bottom-for-top, the beads slide the length ofthe wire they surround, scraping off debris in the process. The beadsembodiments may be combined with any or all of the various sheetsembodiments to provide mechanisms allowing a user to safely clean thewire electrodes in the first electrode array in atransporter-conditioner unit.

[0025] Other features and advantages of the invention will appear fromthe following description in which the preferred embodiments have beenset forth in detail, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026]FIG. 1A is a plan, cross-sectional view, of a first embodiment ofa prior art electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system,according to the prior art;

[0027]FIG. 1B is a plan, cross-sectional view, of a second embodiment ofa prior art electro-kinetic air transporter-conditioner system,according to the prior art;

[0028]FIG. 2A is an perspective view of a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0029]FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 2A, withthe second array electrode assembly partially withdrawn depicting amechanism for self-cleaning the first array electrode assembly,according to the present invention;

[0030]FIG. 3 is an electrical block diagram of the present invention;

[0031]FIG. 4A is a perspective block diagram showing a first embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0032]FIG. 4B is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4A;

[0033]FIG. 4C is a perspective block diagram showing a second embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0034]FIG. 4D is a plan block diagram of a modified version of theembodiment of FIG. 4C;

[0035]FIG. 4E is a perspective block diagram showing a third embodimentfor an electrode assembly, according to the present invention;

[0036]FIG. 4F is a plan block diagram of the embodiment of FIG. 4E;

[0037]FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an electrode assembly depicting afirst embodiment of a mechanism to clean first electrode arrayelectrodes, according to the present invention;

[0038]FIG. 5B is a side view depicting an electrode cleaning mechanismas shown in FIG. 5A, according to the present invention;

[0039]FIG. 5C is a plan view of the electrode cleaning mechanism shownin FIG. 5B, according to the present invention;

[0040]FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a pivotable electrode cleaningmechanism, according to the present invention;

[0041] FIGS. 6B-6D depict the cleaning mechanism of FIG. 6A in variouspositions, according to the present invention;

[0042] FIGS. 7A-7E depict cross-sectional views of bead-like mechanismsto clean first electrode array electrodes, according to the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0043]FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an electro-kinetic airtransporter-conditioner system 100 whose housing 102 includes preferablyrear-located intake vents or louvers 104 and preferably front andside-located exhaust vents 106, and a base pedestal 108. Internal to thetransporter housing is an ion generating unit 160, preferably powered byan AC:DC power supply that is energizable or excitable using switch S1.Ion generating unit 160 is self-contained in that other than ambientair, nothing is required from beyond the transporter housing, saveexternal operating potential, for operation of the present invention.

[0044] The upper surface of housing 102 includes a user-liftable handlemember 112 to which is affixed a second array 240 of electrodes 242within an electrode assembly 220. Electrode assembly 220 also comprisesa first array of electrodes 230, shown here as a single wire orwire-like electrode 232. In the embodiment shown, lifting member 112upward lifts second array electrodes 240 up and, if desired, out of unit100, while the first electrode array 230 remains within unit 100. InFIG. 2B, the bottom ends of second array electrode 242 are connected toa member 113, to which is attached a mechanism 500 for cleaning thefirst electrode array electrodes, here electrode 232, whenever handlemember 112 is moved upward or downward by a user. FIGS. 5A-7E, describedlater herein, provide further details as to various mechanisms 500 forcleaning wire or wire-like electrodes 232 in the first electrode array230, and for maintaining high resistance between the first and secondelectrode arrays 220, 230 even if some moisture is allowed to poolwithin the bottom interior of unit 100.

[0045] The first and second arrays of electrodes are coupled in seriesbetween the output terminals of ion generating unit 160, as best seen inFIG. 3. The ability to lift handle 112 provides ready access to theelectrodes comprising the electrode assembly, for purposes of cleaningand, if necessary, replacement. The general shape of the invention shownin FIGS. 2A and 2B is not critical. The top-to-bottom height of thepreferred embodiment is perhaps 1 m, with a left-to-right width ofperhaps 15 cm, and a front-to-back depth of perhaps 10 cm, althoughother dimensions and shapes may of course be used. A louveredconstruction provides ample inlet and outlet venting in an economicalhousing configuration. There need be no real distinction between vents104 and 106, except their location relative to the second arrayelectrodes, and indeed a common vent could be used. These vents serve toensure that an adequate flow of ambient air may be drawn into or madeavailable to the unit 100, and that an adequate flow of ionized air thatincludes safe amounts of O₃ flows out from unit 130.

[0046] As will be described, when unit 100 is energized with S1, highvoltage output by ion generator 160 produces ions at the first electrodearray, which ions are attracted to the second electrode array. Themovement of the ions in an “IN” to “OUT” direction carries with them airmolecules, thus electro kinetically producing an outflow of ionized air.The “IN” notion in FIGS. 2A and 2B denote the intake of ambient air withparticulate matter 60. The “OUT” notation in the figures denotes theoutflow of cleaned air substantially devoid of the particulate matter,which adheres electrostatically to the surface of the second arrayelectrodes. In the process of generating the ionized air flow, safeamounts of ozone (O₃) are beneficially produced. It may be desired toprovide the inner surface of housing 102 with an electrostatic shield toreduces detectable electromagnetic radiation. For example, a metalshield could be disposed within the housing, or portions of the interiorof the housing could be coated with a metallic paint to reduce suchradiation.

[0047] As best seen in FIG. 3, ion generating unit 160 includes a highvoltage generator unit 170 and circuitry 180 for converting rawalternating voltage (e.g., 117 VAC) into direct current (“DC”) voltage.Circuitry 180 preferably includes circuitry controlling the shape and/orduty cycle of the generator unit output voltage (which control isaltered with user switch S2). Circuitry 180 preferably also includes apulse mode component, coupled to switch S3, to temporarily provide aburst of increased output ozone. Circuitry 180 can also include a timercircuit and a visual indicator such as a light emitting diode (“LED”).The LED or other indicator (including, if desired, audible indicator)signals when ion generation is occurring. The timer can automaticallyhalt generation of ions and/or ozone after some predetermined time,e.g., 30 minutes. indicator(s), and/or audible indicator(s).

[0048] As shown in FIG. 3, high voltage generator unit 170 preferablycomprises a low voltage oscillator circuit 190 of perhaps 20 KHzfrequency, that outputs low voltage pulses to an electronic switch 200,e.g., a thyristor or the like. Switch 200 switchably couples the lowvoltage pulses to the input winding of a step-up transformer T1. Thesecondary winding of T1 is coupled to a high voltage multiplier circuit210 that outputs high voltage pulses. Preferably the circuitry andcomponents comprising high voltage pulse generator 170 and circuit 180are fabricated on a printed circuit board that is mounted within housing102. If desired, external audio input (e.g., from a stereo tuner) couldbe suitably coupled to oscillator 190 to acoustically modulate thekinetic airflow produced by unit 160. The result would be anelectrostatic loudspeaker, whose output airflow is audible to the humanear in accordance with the audio input signal. Further, the output airstream would still include ions and ozone.

[0049] Output pulses from high voltage generator 170 preferably are atleast 10 KV peak-to-peak with an effective DC offset of perhaps half thepeak-to-peak voltage, and have a frequency of perhaps 20 KHz. The pulsetrain output preferably has a duty cycle of perhaps 10%, which willpromote battery lifetime. Of course, different peak-peak amplitudes, DCoffsets, pulse train waveshapes, duty cycle, and/or repetitionfrequencies may instead be used. Indeed, a 100% pulse train (e.g., anessentially DC high voltage) may be used, albeit with shorter batterylifetime. Thus, generator unit 170 may (but need not) be referred to asa high voltage pulse generator.

[0050] Frequency of oscillation is not especially critical but frequencyof at least about 20 KHz is preferred as being inaudible to humans. Ifpets will be in the same room as the unit 100, it may be desired toutilize an even higher operating frequency, to prevent pet discomfortand/or howling by the pet. As noted with respect to FIGS. 5A-6E, toreduce likelihood of audible oscillations, it is desired to include atleast one mechanism to clean the first electrode array 230 elements 232.

[0051] The output from high voltage pulse generator unit 170 is coupledto an electrode assembly 220 that comprises a first electrode array 230and a second electrode array 240. Unit 170 functions as a DC:DC highvoltage generator, and could be implemented using other circuitry and/ortechniques to output high voltage pulses that are input to electrodeassembly 220.

[0052] In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the positive output terminal of unit170 is coupled to first electrode array 230, and the negative outputterminal is coupled to second electrode array 240. This couplingpolarity has been found to work well, including minimizing unwantedaudible electrode vibration or hum. An electrostatic flow of air iscreated, going from the first electrode array towards the secondelectrode array. (This flow is denoted “OUT” in the figures.)Accordingly electrode assembly 220 is mounted within transporter system100 such that second electrode array 240 is closer to the OUT vents andfirst electrode array 230 is closer to the IN vents.

[0053] When voltage or pulses from high voltage pulse generator 170 arecoupled across first and second electrode arrays 230 and 240, it isbelieved that a plasma-like field is created surrounding electrodes 232in first array 230. This electric field ionizes the ambient air betweenthe first and second electrode arrays and establishes an “OUT” airflowthat moves towards the second array. It is understood that the IN flowenters via vent(s) 104, and that the OUT flow exits via vent(s) 106.

[0054] It is believed that ozone and ions are generated simultaneouslyby the first array electrode(s) 232, essentially as a function of thepotential from generator 170 coupled to the first array. Ozonegeneration may be increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing thepotential at the first array. Coupling an opposite polarity potential tothe second array electrode(s) 242 essentially accelerates the motion ofions generated at the first array, producing the airflow denoted as“OUT” in the figures. As the ions move toward the second array, it isbelieved that they push or move air molecules toward the second array.The relative velocity of this motion may be increased by decreasing thepotential at the second array relative to the potential at the firstarray.

[0055] For example, if +10 KV were applied to the first arrayelectrode(s), and no potential were applied to the second arrayelectrode(s), a cloud of ions (whose net charge is positive) would formadjacent the first electrode array. Further, the relatively high 10 KVpotential would generate substantial ozone. By coupling a relativelynegative potential to the second array electrode(s), the velocity of theair mass moved by the net emitted ions increases, as momentum of themoving ions is conserved.

[0056] On the other hand, if it were desired to maintain the sameeffective outflow (OUT) velocity but to generate less ozone, theexemplary 10 KV potential could be divided between the electrode arrays.For example, generator 170 could provide +4 KV (or some other fraction)to the first array electrode(s) and −6 KV (or some other fraction) tothe second array electrode(s). In this example, it is understood thatthe +4 KV and the −6 KV are measured relative to ground. Understandablyit is desired that the unit 100 operate to output safe amounts of ozone.Accordingly, the high voltage is preferably fractionalized with about +4KV applied to the first array electrode(s) and about −6 KV applied tothe second array electrodes.

[0057] As noted, outflow (OUT) preferably includes safe amounts of O₃that can destroy or at least substantially alter bacteria, germs, andother living (or quasi-living) matter subjected to the outflow. Thus,when switch S1 is closed and B1 has sufficient operating potential,pulses from high voltage pulse generator unit 170 create an outflow(OUT) of ionized air and O₃. When S1 is closed, LED will visually signalwhen ionization is occurring.

[0058] Preferably operating parameters of unit 100 are set duringmanufacture and are not user-adjustable. For example, increasing thepeak-to-peak output voltage and/or duty cycle in the high voltage pulsesgenerated by unit 170 can increase air flowrate, ion content, and ozonecontent. In the preferred embodiment, output flowrate is about 200feet/minute, ion content is about 2,000,000/cc and ozone content isabout 40 ppb (over ambient) to perhaps 2,000 ppb (over ambient).Decreasing the R2/R1 ratio below about 20:1 will decrease flow rate, aswill decreasing the peak-to-peak voltage and/or duty cycle of the highvoltage pulses coupled between the first and second electrode arrays.

[0059] In practice, unit 100 is placed in a room and connected to anappropriate source of operating potential, typically 117 VAC. With S1energized, ionization unit 160 emits ionized air and preferably someozone (O₃) via outlet vents 150. The air flow, coupled with the ions andozone freshens the air in the room, and the ozone can beneficiallydestroy or at least diminish the undesired effects of certain odors,bacteria, germs, and the like. The air flow is indeedelectro-kinetically produced, in that there are no intentionally movingparts within unit 100. (As noted, some mechanical vibration may occurwithin the electrodes.) As will be described with respect to FIG. 4A, itis desirable that unit 100 actually output a net surplus of negativeions, as these ions are deemed more beneficial to health than arepositive ions.

[0060] Having described various aspects of the invention in general,preferred embodiments of electrode assembly 220 will now be described.In the various embodiments, electrode assembly 220 will comprise a firstarray 230 of at least one electrode 232, and will further comprise asecond array 240 of preferably at least one electrode 242.Understandably material(s) for electrodes 232 and 242 should conductelectricity, be resilient to corrosive effects from the application ofhigh voltage, yet be strong enough to be cleaned.

[0061] In the various electrode assemblies to be described herein,electrode(s) 232 in the first electrode array 230 are preferablyfabricated from tungsten. Tungsten is sufficiently robust to withstandcleaning, has a high melting point to retard breakdown due toionization, and has a rough exterior surface that seems to promoteefficient ionization. On the other hand, electrodes 242 preferably willhave a highly polished exterior surface to minimize unwantedpoint-to-point radiation. As such, electrodes 242 preferably arefabricated from stainless steel, brass, among other materials. Thepolished surface of electrodes 232 also promotes ease of electrodecleaning.

[0062] In contrast to the prior art electrodes disclosed by Lee,electrodes 232 and 242, electrodes used in unit 100 are light weight,easy to fabricate, and lend themselves to mass production. Further,electrodes 232 and 242 described herein promote more efficientgeneration of ionized air, and production of safe amounts of ozone, O₃.

[0063] In unit 100, a high voltage pulse generator 170 is coupledbetween the first electrode array 230 and the second electrode array240. The high voltage pulses produce a flow of ionized air that travelsin the direction from the first array towards the second array(indicated herein by hollow arrows denoted “OUT”). As such, electrode(s)232 may be referred to as an emitting electrode, and electrodes 242 maybe referred to as collector electrodes. This outflow advantageouslycontains safe amounts of O₃, and exits unit 100 from vent(s) 106.

[0064] It is preferred that the positive output terminal or port of thehigh voltage pulse generator be coupled to electrodes 232, and that thenegative output terminal or port be coupled to electrodes 242. It isbelieved that the net polarity of the emitted ions is positive, e.g.,more positive ions than negative ions are emitted. In any event, thepreferred electrode assembly electrical coupling minimizes audible humfrom electrodes 232 contrasted with reverse polarity (e.g.,interchanging the positive and negative output port connections).

[0065] However, while generation of positive ions is conducive to arelatively silent airflow, from a health standpoint, it is desired thatthe output airflow be richer in negative ions, not positive ions. It isnoted that in some embodiments, however, one port (preferably thenegative port) of the high voltage pulse generator may in fact be theambient air. Thus, electrodes in the second array need not be connectedto the high voltage pulse generator using wire. Nonetheless, there willbe an “effective connection” between the second array electrodes and oneoutput port of the high voltage pulse generator, in this instance, viaambient air.

[0066] Turning now to the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, electrodeassembly 220 comprises a first array 230 of wire electrodes 232, and asecond array 240 of generally “U”-shaped electrodes 242. In preferredembodiments, the number N1 of electrodes comprising the first array willpreferably differ by one relative to the number N2 of electrodescomprising the second array. In many of the embodiments shown, N2>N1.However, if desired, in FIG. 4A, addition first electrodes 232 could beadded at the out ends of array 230 such that N1>N2, e.g., fiveelectrodes 232 compared to four electrodes 242.

[0067] Electrodes 232 are preferably lengths of tungsten wire, whereaselectrodes 242 are formed from sheet metal, preferably stainless steel,although brass or other sheet metal could be used. The sheet metal isreadily formed to define side regions 244 and bulbous nose region 246for hollow elongated “U” shaped electrodes 242. While FIG. 4A depictsfour electrodes 242 in second array 240 and three electrodes 232 infirst array 230, as noted, other numbers of electrodes in each arraycould be used, preferably retaining a symmetrically staggeredconfiguration as shown. It is seen in FIG. 4A that while particulatematter 60 is present in the incoming (IN) air, the outflow (OUT) air issubstantially devoid of particulate matter, which adheres to thepreferably large surface area provided by the second array electrodes(see FIG. 4B).

[0068] As best seen in FIG. 4B, the spaced-apart configuration betweenthe arrays is staggered such that each first array electrode 232 issubstantially equidistant from two second array electrodes 242. Thissymmetrical staggering has been found to be an especially efficientelectrode placement. Preferably the staggering geometry is symmetricalin that adjacent electrodes 232 or adjacent electrodes 242 arespaced-apart a constant distance, Y1 and Y2 respectively. However, anon-symmetrical configuration could also be used, although ion emissionand air flow would likely be diminished. Also, it is understood that thenumber of electrodes 232 and 242 may differ from what is shown.

[0069] In FIGS. 4A, typically dimensions are as follows: diameter ofelectrodes 232 is about 0.08 mm, distances Y1 and Y2 are each about 16mm, distance X1 is about 16 mm, distance L is about 20 mm, and electrodeheights Z1 and Z2 are each about 1 m. The width W of electrodes 242 ispreferably about 4 mm, and the thickness of the material from whichelectrodes 242 are formed is about 0.5 mm. Of course other dimensionsand shapes could be used. It is preferred that electrodes 232 be smallin diameter to help establish a desired high voltage field. On the otherhand, it is desired that electrodes 232 (as well as electrodes 242) besufficiently robust to withstand occasional cleaning.

[0070] Electrodes 232 in first array 230 are coupled by a conductor 234to a first (preferably positive) output port of high voltage pulsegenerator 170, and electrodes 242 in second array 240 are coupled by aconductor 244 to a second (preferably negative) output port of generator170. It is relatively unimportant where on the various electrodeselectrical connection is made to conductors 234 or 244. Thus, by way ofexample FIG. 4B depicts conductor 244 making connection with someelectrodes 242 internal to bulbous end 246, while other electrodes 242make electrical connection to conductor 244 elsewhere on the electrode.Electrical connection to the various electrodes 242 could also be madeon the electrode external surface providing no substantial impairment ofthe outflow airstream results.

[0071] To facilitate removing the electrode assembly from unit 100 (asshown in FIG. 2B), it is preferred that the lower end of the variouselectrodes fit against mating portions of wire or other conductors 234or 244. For example, “cup-like” members can be affixed to wires 234 and244 into which the free ends of the various electrodes fit whenelectrode array 220 is inserted completely into housing 102 of unit 100.

[0072] The ratio of the effective electric field emanating area ofelectrode 232 to the nearest effective area of electrodes 242 is atleast about 15:1, and preferably is at least 20:1. Thus, in theembodiment of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the ratio R2/R1≈2 mm/0.04 mm≈50:1.

[0073] In this and the other embodiments to be described herein,ionization appears to occur at the smaller electrode(s) 232 in the firstelectrode array 230, with ozone production occurring as a function ofhigh voltage arcing. For example, increasing the peak-to-peak voltageamplitude and/or duty cycle of the pulses from the high voltage pulsegenerator 170 can increase ozone content in the output flow of ionizedair. If desired, user-control S2 can be used to somewhat vary ozonecontent by varying (in a safe manner) amplitude and/or duty cycle.Specific circuitry for achieving such control is known in the art andneed not be described in detail herein.

[0074] Note the inclusion in FIGS. 4A and 4B of at least one outputcontrolling electrode 243, preferably electrically coupled to the samepotential as the second array electrodes. Electrode 243 preferablydefines a pointed shape in side profile, e.g., a triangle. The sharppoint on electrode(s) 243 causes generation of substantial negative ions(since the electrode is coupled to relatively negative high potential).These negative ions neutralize excess positive ions otherwise present inthe output air flow, such that the OUT flow has a net negative charge.Electrode(s) 243 preferably are stainless steel, copper, or otherconductor, and are perhaps 20 mm high and about 12 mm wide at the base.

[0075] Another advantage of including pointed electrodes 243 is thatthey may be stationarily mounted within the housing of unit 100, andthus are not readily reached by human hands when cleaning the unit. Wereit otherwise, the sharp point on electrode(s) 243 could easily causecuts. The inclusion of one electrode 243 has been found sufficient toprovide a sufficient number of output negative ions, but more suchelectrodes may be included.

[0076] In the embodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4C, each “U”-shaped electrode242 has two trailing edges that promote efficient kinetic transport ofthe outflow of ionized air and O₃. Note the inclusion on at least oneportion of a trailing edge of a pointed electrode region 243′. Electroderegion 243′ helps promote output of negative ions, in the same fashionas was described with respect to FIGS. 4A and 4B. Note, however, thehigher likelihood of a user cutting himself or herself when wipingelectrodes 242 with a cloth or the like to remove particulate matterdeposited thereon. In FIG. 4C and the figures to follow, the particulatematter is omitted for ease of illustration. However, from what was shownin FIGS. 2A-4B, particulate matter will be present in the incoming air,and will be substantially absent from the outgoing air. As has beendescribed, particulate matter 60 typically will be electrostaticallyprecipitated upon the surface area of electrodes 242. As indicated byFIG. 4C, it is relatively unimportant where on an electrode arrayelectrical connection is made. Thus, first array electrodes 232 areshown connected together at their bottom regions, whereas second arrayelectrodes 242 are shown connected together in their middle regions.Both arrays may be connected together in more than one region, e.g., atthe top and at the bottom. It is preferred that the wire or strips orother inter-connecting mechanisms be at the top or bottom or peripheryof the second array electrodes 242, so as to minimize obstructing streamair movement.

[0077] Note that the embodiments of FIGS. 4C and 4D depict somewhattruncated versions of electrodes 242. Whereas dimension L in theembodiment of FIGS. 4A and 4B was about 20 mm, in FIGS. 4C and 4D, L hasbeen shortened to about 8 mm. Other dimensions in FIG. 4C preferably aresimilar to those stated for FIGS. 4A and 4B. In FIGS. 4C and 4D, theinclusion of point-like regions 246 on the trailing edge of electrodes242 seems to promote more efficient generation of ionized airflow. Itwill be appreciated that the configuration of second electrode array 240in FIG. 4C can be more robust than the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B,by virtue of the shorter trailing edge geometry. As noted earlier, asymmetrical staggered geometry for the first and second electrode arraysis preferred for the configuration of FIG. 4C.

[0078] In the embodiment of FIG. 4D, the outermost second electrodes,denoted 242-1 and 242-2, have substantially no outermost trailing edges.Dimension L in FIG. 4D is preferably about 3 mm, and other dimensionsmay be as stated for the configuration of FIGS. 4A and 4B. Again, theR2/R1 ratio for the embodiment of FIG. 4D preferably exceeds about 20:1.

[0079]FIGS. 4E and 4F depict another embodiment of electrode assembly220, in which the first electrode array comprises a single wireelectrode 232, and the second electrode array comprises a single pair ofcurved “L”-shaped electrodes 242, in cross-section. Typical dimensions,where different than what has been stated for earlier-describedembodiments, are X1≈12 mm, Y1≈6 mm, Y2≈5 mm, and L1≈3 mm. The effectiveR2/R1 ratio is again greater than about 20:1. The fewer electrodescomprising assembly 220 in FIGS. 4E and 4F promote economy ofconstruction, and ease of cleaning, although more than one electrode232, and more than two electrodes 242 could of course be employed. Thisembodiment again incorporates the staggered symmetry described earlier,in which electrode 232 is equidistant from two electrodes 242.

[0080] Turning now to FIG. 5A, a first embodiment of an electrodecleaning mechanism 500 is depicted. In the embodiment shown, mechanism500 comprises a flexible sheet of insulating material such as Mylar orother high voltage, high temperature breakdown resistant material,having sheet thickness of perhaps 0.1 mm or so. Sheet 500 is attached atone end to the base or other mechanism 113 secured to the lower end ofsecond electrode array 240. Sheet 500 extends or projects out from base113 towards and beyond the location of first electrode array 230electrodes 232. The overall projection length of sheet 500 in FIG. 5Awill be sufficiently long to span the distance between base 113 of thesecond array 240 and the location of electrodes 232 in the first array230. This span distance will depend upon the electrode arrayconfiguration but typically will be a few inches or so. Preferably thedistal edge of sheet 500 will extend slightly beyond the location ofelectrodes 232, perhaps 0.5″ beyond. As shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, thedistal edge, e.g., edge closest to electrodes 232, of material 500 isformed with a slot 510 corresponding to the location of an electrode232. Preferably the inward end of the slot forms a small circle 520,which can promote flexibility.

[0081] The configuration of material 500 and slots 510 is such that eachwire or wire-like electrode 232 in the first electrode array 230 fitssnugly and frictionally within a corresponding slot 510. As indicated byFIG. 5A and shown in FIG. 5C, instead of a single sheet 500 thatincludes a plurality of slots 510, instead one can provide individualstrips 515 of material 500, the distal end of each strip having a slot510 that will surround an associated wire electrode 232. Note in FIGS.5B and 5C that sheet 500 or sheets 515 may be formed with holes 119 thatcan attach to pegs 117 that project from the base portion 113 of thesecond electrode array 240. Of course other attachment mechanisms couldbe used including glue, double-sided tape, inserting the array240-facing edge of the sheet into a horizontal slot or ledge in basemember 113, and so forth.

[0082]FIG. 5A shows second electrode array 240 in the process of beingmoved upward, perhaps by a user intending to remove array 240 to removeparticulate matter from the surfaces of its electrodes 242. Note that asarray 240 moves up (or down), sheet 510 (or sheets 515) also move up (ordown). This vertical movement of array 240 produces a vertical movementin sheet 510 or 515, which causes the outer surface of electrodes 232 toscrape against the inner surfaces of an associated slot 510. FIG. 5A,for example, shows debris and other deposits 612 (indicated by x's) onwires 232 above sheet 500. As array 240 and sheet 500 move upward,debris 612 is scraped off the wire electrodes, and falls downward (to bevaporized or collected as particulate matter when unit 100 is againreassembled and turned-on). Thus, the outer surface of electrodes 232below sheet 500 in FIG. 5A is shown as being cleaner than the surface ofthe same electrodes above sheet 500, where scraping action has yet tooccur.

[0083] A user hearing that excess noise or humming emanates from unit100 might simply turn the unit off, and slide array 240 (and thus sheet500 or sheets 515) up and down (as indicated by the up/down arrows inFIG. 5A) to scrape the wire electrodes in the first electrode array.This technique does not damage the wire electrodes, and allows the userto clean as required.

[0084] As noted earlier, a user may remove second electrode array 240for cleaning (thus also removing sheet 500, which will have scrapedelectrodes 232 on its upward vertical path). If the user cleanselectrodes 242 with water and returns array 240 to unit 100 withoutfirst completely drying 240, moisture might form on the upper surface ofa horizontally disposed member 550 within unit 100. Thus, as shown inFIG. 5N, it is preferred that an upwardly projecting vane 560 bedisposed near the base of each electrode 232 such that when array 240 isfully inserted into unit 100, the distal portion of sheet 500 orpreferably sheet strips 515 deflect upward. While sheet 500 or sheets515 nominally will define an angle θ of about 90°, as base 113 becomesfully inserted into unit 100, the angle θ will increase, approaching 0°,e.g., the sheet is extending almost vertically upward. If desired, aportion of sheet 500 or sheet strips 515 can be made stiffer bylaminating two or more layers of Mylar or other material. For examplethe distal tip of strip 515 in FIG. 5B might be one layer thick, whereasthe half or so of the strip length nearest electrode 242 might bestiffened with an extra layer or two of Mylar or similar material.

[0085] The inclusion of a projecting vane 560 in the configuration ofFIG. 5B advantageously disrupted physical contact between sheet 500 orsheet strips 515 and electrodes 232, thus tending to preserve a highohmic impedance between the first and second electrode arrays 230, 240.The embodiment of FIGS. 6A-6D advantageously serves to pivot sheet 500or sheet strips 515 upward, essentially parallel to electrodes 232, tohelp maintain a high impedance between the first and second electrodearrays. Note the creation of an air gap 513 resulting from the upwarddeflection of the slit distal tip of strip 515 in FIG. 5B.

[0086] In FIG. 6A, the lower edges of second array electrodes 242 areretained by a base member 113 from which project arms 677, which canpivot about pivot axle 687. Preferably axle 687 biases arms 677 into ahorizontal disposition, e.g., such that θ≈90°. Arms 645 project from thelongitudinal axis of base member 113 to help member 113 align itselfwithin an opening 655 formed in member 550, described below. Preferablybase member 113 and arms 677 are formed from a material that exhibitshigh voltage breakdown and can withstand high temperature. Ceramic is apreferred material (if cost and weight were not considered), but certainplastics could also be used. The unattached tip of each arm 677terminates in a sheet strip 515 of Mylar, Kapton, or a similar material,whose distal tip terminates in a slot 510. It is seen that the pivotablearms 677 and sheet strips 515 are disposed such that each slot 510 willself-align with a wire or wire-like electrode 232 in first array 230.Electrodes 232 preferably extend from pylons 627 on a base member 550that extends from legs 565 from the internal bottom of the housing ofthe transporter-conditioner unit. To further help maintain highimpedance between the first and second electrode arrays, base member 550preferably includes a barrier wall 665 and upwardly extending vanes 675.Vanes 675, pylons 627, and barrier wall 665 extend upward perhaps aninch or so, depending upon the configuration of the two electrode beformed integrally, e.g., by casting, from a material that exhibits highvoltage breakdown and can withstand high temperature, ceramic, orcertain plastics for example. As best seen in FIG. 6A, base member 550includes an opening 655 sized to receive the lower portion of secondelectrode array base member 113. In FIGS. 6A and 6B, arms 677 and sheetmaterial 515 are shown pivoting from base member 113 about axis 687 atan angle θ≈90°. In this disposition, an electrode 232 will be withinthe slot 510 formed at the distal tip of each sheet material member 515.

[0087] Assume that a user had removed second electrode array 240completely from the transporter-conditioner unit for cleaning, and thatFIGS. 6A and 6B depict array 240 being reinserted into the unit. Thecoiled spring or other bias mechanism associated with pivot axle 687will urge arms 677 into an approximate θ≈90° orientation as the userinserts array 240 into unit 100. Side projections 645 help base member113 align properly such that each wire or wire-like electrode 232 iscaught within the slot 510 of a member 515 on an arm 677. As the userslides array 240 down into unit 100, there will be a scraping actionbetween the portions of sheet member 515 on either side of a slot 510,and the outer surface of an electrode 232 that is essentially capturedwithin the slot. This friction will help remove debris or deposits thatmay have formed on the surface of electrodes 232. The user may slidearray 240 up and down the further promote the removal of debris ordeposits from elements 232.

[0088] In FIG. 6C the user has slid array 240 down almost entirely intounit 100. In the embodiment shown, when the lowest portion of basemember 232 is perhaps an inch or so above the planar surface of member550, the upward edge of a vane 675 will strike the a lower surfaceregion of a projection arm 677. The result will be to pivot arm 677 andthe attached slit-member 515 about axle 687 such that the angle θdecreases. In the disposition shown in FIG. 6C, θ≈45° and slit-contactwith an associated electrode 232 is no longer made.

[0089] In FIG. 6D, the user has firmly urged array 240 fully downwardinto transporter-conditioner unit 100. In this disposition, as theprojecting bottommost portion of member 113 begins to enter opening 655in member 550 (see FIG. 6A), contact between the inner wall 657 portionof member 550 urges each arm 677 to pivot fully upward, e.g., θ≈0°. Thusin the fully inserted disposition shown in FIG. 6D, each slit electrodecleaning member 515 is rotated upward parallel to its associatedelectrode 232. As such, neither arm 677 nor member 515 will decreaseimpedance between first and second electrode arrays 230, 240. Further,the presence of vanes 675 and barrier wall 665 further promote highimpedance.

[0090] Thus, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 5A-6D depict alternativeconfigurations for a cleaning mechanism for a wire or wire-likeelectrode in a transporter-conditioner unit.

[0091] Turning now to FIGS. 7A-7E, various bead-like mechanisms areshown for cleaning deposits from the outer surface of wire electrodes232 in a first electrode array 230 in a transporter-converter unit. InFIG. 7A a symmetrical bead 600 is shown surrounding wire element 232,which is passed through bead channel 610 at the time the first electrodearray is fabricated. Bead 600 is fabricated from a material that canwithstand high temperature and high voltage, and is not likely to char,ceramic or glass, for example. While a metal bead would also work, anelectrically conductive bead material would tend slightly to decreasethe resistance path separating the first and second electrode arrays,e.g., by approximately the radius of the metal bead. In FIG. 7A, debrisand deposits 612 on electrode 232 are depicted as “x's”. In FIG. 7A,bead 600 is moving in the direction shown by the arrow relative to wire232. Such movement can result from the user inverting unit 100, e.g.,turning the unit upside down. As bead 600 slides in the direction of thearrow, debris and deposits 612 scrape against the interior walls ofchannel 610 and are removed. The removed debris can eventually collectat the bottom interior of the transporter-conditioner unit. Such debriswill be broken down and vaporized as the unit is used, or willaccumulate as particulate matter on the surface of electrodes 242. Ifwire 232 has a nominal diameter of say 0.1 mm, the diameter of beadchannel 610 will be several times larger, perhaps 0.8 mm or so, althoughgreater or lesser size tolerances may be used. Bead 600 need not becircular and may instead be cylindrical as shown by bead 600′ in FIG.7A. A circular bead may have a diameter in the range of perhaps 0.3″ toperhaps 0.5″. A cylindrical bead might have a diameter of say 0.3″ andbe about 0.5″ tall, although different sizes could of course be used.

[0092] As indicated by FIG. 7A, an electrode 232 may be strung throughmore than one bead 600, 600′. Further, as shown by FIGS. 7B-7D, beadshaving different channel symmetries and orientations may be used aswell. It is to be noted that while it may be most convenient to formchannels 610 with circular cross-sections, the cross-sections could infact be non-circular, e.g., triangular, square, irregular shape, etc.

[0093]FIG. 7B shows a bead 600 similar to that of FIG. 7A, but whereinchannel 610 is formed off-center to give asymmetry to the bead. Anoff-center channel will have a mechanical moment and will tend toslightly tension wire electrode 232 as the bead slides up or down, andcan improve cleaning characteristics. For ease of illustration, FIGS.7B-7E do not depict debris or deposits on or removed from wire orwire-like electrode 232. In the embodiment of FIG. 7C, bead channel 610is substantially in the center of bead 600 but is inclined slightly,again to impart a different frictional cleaning action. In theembodiment of FIG. 7D, beam 600 has a channel 610 that is both offcenter and inclined, again to impart a different frictional cleaningaction. In general, asymmetrical bead channel or through-openingorientations are preferred.

[0094]FIG. 7E depicts an embodiment in which a bell-shaped walled bead620 is shaped and sized to fit over a pillar 550 connected to ahorizontal portion 560 of an interior bottom portion of unit 100. Pillar550 retains the lower end of wire or wire-like electrode 232, whichpasses through a channel 630 in bead 620, and if desired, also through achannel 610 in another bead 600. Bead 600 is shown in phantom in FIG. 7Eto indicate that it is optional.

[0095] Friction between debris 612 on electrode 232 and the mouth ofchannel 630 will tend to remove the debris from the electrode as bead620 slides up and down the length of the electrode, e.g., when a userinverts transporter-conditioner unit 100, to clean electrodes 232. It isunderstood that each electrode 232 will include its own bead or beads,and some of the beads may have symmetrically disposed channels, whileother beads may have asymmetrically disposed channels. An advantage ofthe configuration shown in FIG. 7E is that when unit 100 is in use,e.g., when bead 620 surrounds pillar 550, with an air gap therebetween,improved breakdown resistance is provided, especially when bead 620 isfabricated from glass or ceramic or other high voltage, high temperaturebreakdown material that will not readily char. The presence of an airgap between the outer surface of pillar 550 and the inner surface of thebell-shaped bead 620 helps increase this resistance to high voltagebreakdown or arcing, and to charring.

[0096] Modifications and variations may be made to the disclosedembodiments without departing from the subject and spirit of theinvention as defined by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An air conditioner device, comprising: a housing;a first electrode, disposed in said housing; a second electrode,removably disposed in said housing; and means, connected with saidsecond electrode, for frictionally cleaning said first electrode whensaid second electrode is manually removed from said housing.
 2. Thedevice of claim 1, wherein said means for frictionally cleaning includesa length of flexible insulating material.
 3. The device of claim 2,wherein said length of flexible insulating material is sufficiently longto span the distance between said first electrode and said secondelectrode when said second electrode is at least partially in saidhousing.
 4. The device of claim 3, wherein said length of insulatingmaterial includes a first end, associated with said second electrode,and a second end that frictionally cleans said first electrode.
 5. Thedevice of claim 4, wherein said second end defines a slit within whichsaid first electrode fits when said second electrode is disposed atleast partially in said housing.
 6. The device of claim 2, wherein saidlength of flexible insulating material comprises a strip or a sheet offlexible insulating material.
 7. The device of claim 1, wherein saidmeans for frictionally cleaning includes a length of material.
 8. An airconditioner device, comprising: a housing; an emitter electrode,disposed in said housing; a collector electrode, removably disposed insaid housing; and means associated with said collector electrode forfrictionally cleaning said emitter electrode when said collectorelectrode is manually removed from said housing and when said collectorelectrode is returned to said housing.
 9. The device of claim 8, whereinsaid means for frictionally cleaning includes a length of flexibleinsulating material having a first end connected with said collectorelectrode and a second end that extends toward said emitter electrode.10. The device of claim 9, wherein said length of flexible insulatingmaterial comprises a strip or a sheet of flexible insulating material.11. The device of claim 10, wherein said length of flexible insulatingmaterial scrapes against at least a portion of said emitter electrodewhen said collector electrode is removed from and returned to saidhousing.
 12. The device of claim 8, wherein said means for frictionallycleaning includes a length of flexible insulating material that moveswhen said collector electrode moves, and wherein said length of flexibleinsulating material scrapes against at least a portion of said emitterelectrode when said collector is moved.
 13. The device of claim 12,wherein said length of flexible insulating material comprises a strip ora sheet of flexible insulating material.
 14. An air conditioner device,comprising: a housing; an emitter electrode, disposed in said housing; acollector electrode, movably disposed in said housing; and meansassociated with said collector electrode for frictionally cleaning saidemitter electrode when said collector electrode is moved relative tosaid housing.
 15. The device of claim 14, wherein said means forfrictionally cleaning includes a length of flexible insulating material.16. The device of claim 14, wherein said means for frictionally cleaningincludes a length of material.
 17. The device of claim 16, wherein saidlength of material is sufficiently long to span the distance betweensaid emitter electrode and said collector electrode.
 18. An airconditioner device, comprising: a housing; a first electrode, disposedin said housing such that said first electrode is stationary within saidhousing; a second electrode, removably disposed in said housing suchthat said second electrode can be manually removed from said housing andthen returned to a resting position in said housing; and a high voltagegenerator disposed in said housing, to provide a potential differencebetween said first electrode and said second electrode when said secondelectrode is in the resting position in said housing; wherein saidstationary first electrode is frictionally cleaned when said secondelectrode is manually removed from said housing.
 19. The device of claim18, including: a flexible length of insulating material associated withsaid second electrode that scrapes against at least a portion of saidfirst electrode, to thereby frictionally clean said first electrode,when said second electrode is manually removed from said housing. 20.The device of claim 19, wherein said length of flexible insulatingmaterial is sufficiently long to span the distance between said firstelectrode and said second electrode.
 21. The device of claim 19, whereinsaid stationary first electrode is also frictionally cleaned when saidsecond electrode is manually returned to said housing.
 22. The device ofclaim 19, wherein said length of flexible insulating material comprisesa strip or a sheet of flexible insulating material.
 23. The device ofclaim 18, including: a flexible strip of insulating material associatedwith said second electrode that scrapes against at least a portion ofsaid first electrode, to thereby frictionally clean said firstelectrode, when said second electrode is manually removed from saidhousing and when said second electrode is returned to said housing. 24.The device of claim 23, wherein said flexible strip of insulatingmaterial is sufficiently long to span the distance between said firstelectrode and said second electrode.
 25. The device of claim 18,including: a flexible length of insulating material associated with saidsecond electrode and biased to project toward said first electrode; anda vane projecting from an interior region of said housing such that saidvane contacts said length and urges said length away from said firstelectrode when said second electrode is in the resting position in saidhousing.
 26. The device of claim 25, wherein said length disengages fromcontact with said vane, and scrapes against at least a portion of saidfirst electrode, soon after said second electrode is lifted from theresting position, while being removed from said housing.
 27. The deviceof claim 25, wherein said length of flexible insulating materialcomprises a strip or a sheet of flexible insulating material.
 28. An airconditioner device, comprising: a housing; an emitter electrode,disposed in said housing such that said emitter electrode is stationarywithin said housing; a collector electrode, removably disposed in saidhousing such that said collector electrode can be manually removed fromsaid housing and then returned to a resting position in said housing; ahigh voltage generator disposed in said housing, to provide a potentialdifference between said emitter electrode and said collector electrodewhen said collector electrode is in the resting position in saidhousing; a member connected to said collector electrode; and a flexiblelength extending from said member toward said emitter electrode; whereinflexible length scrapes against at least a portion of said emitterelectrode as said collector is manually removed from and returned tosaid housing, to thereby clean said emitter electrode.
 29. The device ofclaim 28, further comprising a handle to assist a user in manuallyremoving and returning said collector electrode.
 30. The device of claim29, further comprising a vane projecting from an interior region of saidhousing such that said vane contacts said length and urges said lengthupward and away from said emitter electrode when said collectorelectrode is in the resting position in said housing.
 31. The device ofclaim 30, wherein said length disengages from contact with said vane,and scrapes against at least a portion of said emitter electrode, soonafter said collector electrode is lifted from the resting position, inthe process of being removed from said housing.
 32. An air conditionerdevice, comprising: a housing; an emitter electrode, disposed in saidhousing such that said emitter-electrode is stationary within saidhousing; a collector electrode, movably disposed in said housing suchthat said collector electrode can be moved from and then returned to aresting position in said housing; a high voltage generator disposed insaid housing, to provide a high voltage potential to said collectorelectrode when said collector electrode is in the resting position; amember connected to said collector electrode; and a flexible lengthextending from said member toward said emitter electrode; whereinflexible length scrapes against at least a portion of said emitterelectrode as said collector is moved relative to said housing, tothereby clean said emitter electrode.
 33. An air conditioner device,comprising: an upstanding, elongated housing; an ion generating unitpositioned in said housing, including: an emitter electrode; a movablecollector electrode, elongated along the direction of elongation of saidhousing; and a user-liftable handle secured to said movable collectorelectrode, said handle accessible through an opening in a top portion ofsaid housing, to assist a user with lifting said collector electrodefrom a resting position within said housing; and a cleaning memberassociated with said collector electrode, wherein said cleaning memberfrictionally cleans said emitter electrode when said collector is liftedusing said handle.
 34. An air conditioner device, comprising: a housing;a first electrode, disposed in said housing; a second electrode,removably disposed in said housing; and a cleaning member connected withsaid collector electrode, wherein said cleaning member frictionallycleans said emitter electrode when said collector is removed from saidhousing.
 35. An air conditioner device, comprising: a housing; a firstelectrode, disposed in said housing; a second electrode, removablydisposed in said housing; and a flexible length of material, connectedwith said second electrode, for frictionally cleaning said firstelectrode when said second electrode is removed from said housing. 36.The device of claim 35, wherein said flexible length of materialcomprises a flexible strip or a sheet.
 37. An air conditioner device,comprising: a housing; a first electrode, disposed in said housing suchthat said first electrode is stationary within said housing; a secondelectrode, removably disposed in said housing such that said secondelectrode can be manually removed from said housing and then returned toa resting position in said housing; and a high voltage generatordisposed in said housing, to provide a high voltage potential to saidsecond electrode when said second electrode is in the resting positionin said housing; wherein said stationary first electrode is frictionallycleaned when said second electrode is moved relative to said housing.38. An air conditioner device, comprising: a housing; an emitterelectrode, disposed in said housing such that said emitter electrode isstationary within said housing; a collector electrode, removablydisposed in said housing such that said collector electrode can bemanually removed from said housing and then returned to a restingposition in said housing; a high voltage generator disposed in saidhousing, to provide a high voltage potential to said collector electrodewhen said collector electrode is in the resting position in saidhousing; a member connected with said collector electrode; and whereinsaid member scrapes against at least a portion of said emitter electrodeas said collector is moved relative to said housing, to thereby cleansaid emitter electrode.